Vernon’s former mayor could be facing house arrest.
Sean Harvey, 36, pled guilty to breach of trust by a public official Monday. Crown counsel is seeking a conditional sentence of 18 months including house arrest and community work while Harvey’s lawyer is recommending eight months to a year. Leaving the court house surrounded by family, Harvey would not comment on the possible sentence. “That’s for the judge to determine,” he said. It’s expected a date for sentencing will be set today. If house arrest occurs, Harvey’s lawyer, Rob Bruneau, is asking that Justice B. Chapman consider his employment for an ocean container firm — which includes travelling — and medical emergencies for himself and his fiance, who is seven months pregnant. Harvey resigned as mayor in July 2005 after a criminal investigation into his expense account while he was in office. He submitted fraudulent expense claims for meals with public officials which never took place. A charge of fraud over $5,000 was stayed by the Crown. Harvey fought back tears as he appeared before the court Monday. “I apologize to the citizens of Vernon. I hope that once its free of this cloud, it continues to grow and prosper,” he said, adding that he has helped fuel public cynicism towards politicians. “I apologize to my family, loved ones and friends. Their love and support has never wavered and I regret the shame and embarrassment I’ve brought them.” Besides family, Coun. Barry Beardsell was in court to rally around Harvey. “I’ve got no comments,” said Beardsell when approached by the media. The court was told that 90 false expense claims occurred between February 2003 and April 2005, totalling $13,838. Stephen Cooke, Crown counsel, suggested economic pressures contributed to use of the city credit card, including Harvey’s lifestyle and marital separation. Bruneau says Harvey started using fictitious names on receipts to protect potential investors in Vernon, but that conduct eventually changed. Bruneau suggested that Harvey faced a lot of pressure as mayor, and he “sought comfort in entertainment expenses.” But it was pointed out to the court that Harvey is taking full responsibility for his actions. “He says he’s not interested in providing a rationale because it would all sound like excuses,” said Bruneau. While describing Harvey’s actions as serious, Cooke stated there are mitigating factors such as Harvey being humiliated in public, that he’s been paying restitution to the city, has been co-operative during the investigation and entered a guilty plea. That view was also upheld by Bruneau, adding that until this July, Harvey faced considerable challenges in finding employment. “He met roadblocks every where he turned because of public awareness.” +++++++++++++++++++++++
Don Quixote Note: The reporter refers to a pregnant fiance. The correct word to be used is fiancee. (On the other hand if he is right this is a much bigger story)
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/fiance n. A man to whom a woman is engaged to be married.
http://www.thefreedictionary.com/fiancee n. A woman to whom a man is engaged to be married.
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